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TALANOA: IT WAS A FEELING LIKE NO OTHER

By Tom Stewart | 02/09/2014

Try
scorer Fetuli Talanoa is still revelling in Friday's derby win against rivals
Hull KR, one of the Black and Whites stand out performers.

The Tongan
opened the Airlie Bird’s try scoring early on and performed magnificently
throughout the match, prompting head coach Lee Radford to hail the 26-year
old’s ‘immense’ display in his post-match press conference.

Speaking
to hullfc.com
Talanoa remained modest about his performance but admitted it was a special
night in front of the Old Faithful at the KC Stadium.

“It was
just amazing to be part of a derby that has supporters that are so passionate
about the team, it was a feeling like no other,” he said.

“To get
the win against them after they got the better of us twice this season was
really satisfying; we just wanted to give the fans something to cheer about.

“These
derby games they never get easier so you have to pretty much play your best
game to get through it because of the huge rivalry between the clubs.

“I really
focused on doing my job for the team and just hope I showed what I can offer.”

The
former South Sydney Rabbitoh crashed over in the tenth minute to give the
Airlie Birds an early first half advantage but really impressed with his
incredible work rate for his side in both attack and defence.

“Scoring
a try anywhere is a bonus but scoring at the KC Stadium in front of a crowd
like that, especially considering it was the first try of the match was pretty
special.

“It was
an important match not only for us as players but our supporters who turn up
week in week out to cheer us on.

“We see
how passionate they are and we were desperate to match that by putting on that
Black and White jersey and giving it our best shot.

“The
atmosphere was incredible and it is what I play rugby league for.”

Talanoa
believes the victory has kick started a change in the Black and White’s belief,
with Sunday’s trip to Huddersfield now an ideal opportunity to carry their
derby winning momentum forward.

“From
getting that win everyone now has their tails up in training and there is a
good spirit amongst the camp.

“We now
have another tough challenge coming up on Sunday. Huddersfield have been a good
consistent side this year and it’s a big test for us to finish the season on a
good note and carry on that winning feeling from Friday’s game.

“It will
be a good challenge for us but I’m sure the boys will be up for it.”